How To Clean Dog Bed?

For most dog owners, their pets are an irreplaceable part of their lives; these pet parents are likely to treat their companions as their family members, even sharing food and bed to strengthen their bonds.
Getting a dog bed is not only about establishing a clear line of authority between the canine and the human, it also gives the dog a personal space to rest or relax after a tiring day. Due to shedding and oil excreted from the dog's body, these beds can get dirty pretty easily.
Today, we discuss the proper way to clean a dog's bed to maintain a safe and hygienic environment for your beloved pet.
1. Remove Loose Fur And Debris
Dog beds, particularly those of heavy shedding breeds like Huskies and Golden Retrievers, can accumulate a fair amount of loose hair. Using a vacuum, clear out any hair that may be stuck in the bed.
Similarly, if your pet spends a significant amount of time in bed, he likely drops other things in the bed too. From accumulating toys to food particles, a pet bed can get quiet messy if not cleaned regularly.
2. Remove the Cover
Getting a bed cover isn't just about hygiene, it can also extend the bed's lifespan. Covers protect the bed from dirt, hair, drool, and accidents, while also creating a barrier against allergens and bacteria.
Wash the bed cover by following the care instructions on the label - most are machine-washable. Use a pet-safe detergent and wash in warm water to eliminate dirt and germs.
After the washing is completed, dry thoroughly to prevent mold or mildew. It's recommended to wash the cover at least once every two weeks, but more frequent dog bed cleaning is necessary if your dog sheds heavily.
3. Spot Clean Stains
In cases where the bed is not dirty but only contains a few stains, it may be more practical to do spot-cleaning than washing the entire bed. Similarly, when the bed has a patch of dirt or a stain caused by a minor accident, spot cleaning saves time and prevents unnecessary wear on the bed.
Spot cleaning is especially useful for quick fixes between regular washes, allowing the bed to stay fresh without disrupting your dog’s comfort. With a pet-safe cleaning solution, gently rub the affected area with a soft brush or cloth to lift the stain. Alternatively, you can also use a mix of baking soda and dry detergent to remove the stain.
After the cleaning procedure is fulfilled, wipe away any residue with a clean cloth. You should also allow the area to air out completely before letting your dog use the bed again.
4. Hand Wash or Machine Wash
Normally, the manufacturer's instructions are clear about whether a dog bed should be washed by hand or by machine. Most dog beds with removable covers are machine-washable, while those with delicate materials may require hand washing.
If the label is missing, inspect the fabric - durable materials like nylon, polyester, or cotton are often machine-friendly, whereas memory foam or wool fillings typically need hand washing.
For machine washing, use a gentle cycle with cold or warm water; you can also add a pet-safe detergent to avoid skin irritation, while a cup of white vinegar can aid in odor control. On the other hand, fill a tub or basin with warm water and mild detergent for hand washing. Then, submerge the bed, scrub it, and let it soak for 15-20 minutes.
5. Disinfect the Bed
With only a few materials, you can successfully sanitize a dog bed; make sure to prepare these materials - mild detergent, white vinegar, baking soda, and warm water. Commence the procedure by scrubbing the bed with a soft brush; focus on seams or areas with the most dirt accumulation.
After washing, let the bed air-dry in direct sunlight, as UV rays naturally disinfect and kill bacteria. Repeat the process - every 1-2 weeks - to help your dog maintain a clean and hygienic bed.
6. Rinse Thoroughly
Some pet owners argue that rinsing is one of the main steps when cleaning a dog's bed; it involves thoroughly washing the bed to separate any dirt or traces of detergents that can irritate a dog.
If you’ve hand-washed the bed, drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean, warm water. Submerge the bed completely and squeeze it to release any trapped soap. Usually, repeating this process 2-3 times with fresh water is enough to wash away any harmful particles.
On the contrary, select an extra rinse cycle if you are cleaning machine-washable beds. After rinsing, press the bed with mild strength to remove excess water without wringing it.
7. Dry Completely
Once the rinsing is complete, the next move is to dry the bed to make it usable for your pet dog. Drain the excess water by pressing or squeezing the bed; however, wringing can deform the fabric, so don't get the bed too wet. If the bed has a removable cover, dry it separately for faster results.
For most dog beds, air drying is the safest method. Place the bed in a well-ventilated area or outdoors in direct sunlight; sunlight not only dries the bed faster but also helps disinfect it naturally. Flip and fluff the bed periodically to dry evenly and prevent moisture from being trapped in thick areas.
Besides, add a few dryer balls or clean tennis balls to fluff the bed as it dries. Once completely dry, check for any dampness before returning the bed to your dog.
8. Fluff the Bed
Sometimes, a dog bed can lose its form after washing - fluffing is usually carried out to restore its shape and structure. Similarly, during washing and drying, the bed’s stuffing can shift or clump. This can make the bed uneven and less cozy for your dog. By simply fluffing the bed, you redistribute the filling so that it can provide cushioning and support to your pet's joints and body.
At the same time, fluffing also helps prevent the bed from flattening over time. For your dog, a fluffed bed means a more inviting and comfortable place to rest. Taking a few minutes to fluff the bed shows that you care about their comfort.
9. Clean the Surrounding Area
In many cases, simply cleaning the bed may not be enough, especially if the nearby spots of the bed are unhygienic. Dirt, dust, and bacteria from the surrounding area will quickly transfer back onto the bed, proving the cleaning virtually useless.
An unclean environment negates your efforts, making the bed dirty again and exposing your dog to potential health risks. Always aim to keep the entire area clean for a longer-lasting fresh bed.
Also, it doesn't take much effort to keep your dog's sleeping area hygienic. Vacuuming the floor bi-weekly can get rid of hair, dust, and debris, the most common things you'll find. Likewise, you can mop the floors with a pet-friendly cleaning solution; this will eliminate germs.
If the bed is in a high-traffic area, consider placing it on a washable mat or in a quieter spot to minimize dirt accumulation.
Why Is Cleaning Dog Bed Necessary?
Let's be honest here! If an individual thinks that keeping a dog's bed clean is not a priority, they are probably bad at pet parenting or just negligent. A clean dog bed should absolutely be a priority, not just for appearance's sake but also to provide a safe spot for your pet to sleep.
These are some reasons that show why maintaining a clean dog bed is necessary.
1. Health And Hygiene
Over time, dog beds can collect dirt, oils, hair, and dander, creating an ideal environment for bacteria and parasites to grow. A thorough cleaning removes these contaminants and reduces the risk of infections and skin irritations.
Likewise, a clean bed ensures sound sleep which every dog values. So, in a way, bedding can influence if a dog has plenty of rest and sleep as they prepare for a new day.
2. Odor Control
When a bed is not washed for a long time, the oils and dirt that get collected will eventually start giving off a foul odor. To prevent this smell buildup, make sure to wash the bed weekly or at least every two weeks.
A pet-friendly deodorizing spray will go a long way to keep the bed odor-free. Alternatively, adding baking soda to the wash also does the trick. Baking soda naturally absorbs odors and neutralizes smells without using harsh chemicals.
As UV rays act as a natural disinfectant, drying the bed in direct sunlight is equally effective in removing an unpleasant smell.
3. Pest Prevention
Pests - such as fleas, ticks, and mites - can infest a dog's bedding along with posing significant health risks. Fleas, in particular, can breed in the warm and moist environment of a dog bed, while ticks and mites hide in the seams and fabric.
The safe way to avoid these infestations is to wash the bed frequently with hot water to kill any pests and their eggs. For stubborn infestations, consider adding an insecticidal soap or vinegar during the washing process.
4. Allergy Management
Due to the buildup of allergens, a dirty dog bed can trigger allergies in both dogs and humans. Humans, particularly those with pet allergies, can develop symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, and even asthma attacks when exposed to these allergens.
On the other hand, dogs with allergies are also greatly affected by an unclean environment. From sneezing to respiratory issues, the allergic reaction can be life-threatening if not intervened in time.
Washing the bed can significantly reduce allergens, but it might not eliminate them entirely. Consider adding a hypoallergenic detergent during the wash to remove any triggering agent that is too resistant for a normal wash.
How Often Should A Dog Bed Be Cleaned?
Under normal circumstances, washing the bed once a week or every two weeks should be enough to maintain clean bedding for your pet. However, the general rule doesn't usually account for factors like the dog's activity level or health.
Outdoor dogs that spend a lot of time outside of their homes or have accidents may require more frequent cleaning. Similarly, additional cleaning may also be required if your dog is highly active or enjoys muddy adventures; you'll possibly need to clean the bed after each outing to prevent dirt and odor buildup.
At the same time, the dog's health plays a crucial role in determining the necessary cleaning frequency. A bed used by a sick dog or one with incontinence may need to be washed more often compared to a bed used by a healthy dog.
If you find any signs of dirt, odors, or excess hair, it's likely time for a wash. Additionally, a dog scratching more than usual or developing skin irritations is also a clear sign that an immediate cleaning is required.
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